Behind the Headset: Predictive Accuracy of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures for Voice Symptoms in Call Centers

Objective: This study examines factors predicting self-reported voice symptoms in call center workers. Methods: Multivariate analysis and predictive modeling assess personal, work-related, acoustic, and behavioral factors. Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves are employed. Results: Age and sleep patterns impacted voice quality and effort, while workplace factors influenced symptom perception. Unhealthy vocal behaviors related to tense voice and increased effort, while hydration was protective. Voice acoustics showed diagnostic potential, supported by ROC data. These findings emphasize voice symptom complexity in call center professionals, necessitating comprehensive assessment. Limitations: This study recognizes its limitations, including a moderate-sized convenience sample and reliance on PROM metrics. Future research should incorporate more objective measures in addition to self-reports and acoustic analysis. Value: This research provides novel insights into the interplay of personal, occupational, and voice-related factors in developing voice symptoms among call center workers. Predictive modeling enhances risk assessment and understanding of individual susceptibility to voice disorders. Conclusion: Results show associations between various factors and self-reported voice symptoms. Protective factors include sleeping more than six hours and consistent hydration, whereas risk factors include working conditions, such as location and behaviors like smoking. Diagnostic models indicate good accuracy for some voice symptom PROMs, emphasizing the need for comprehensive models considering work factors, vocal behaviors, and acoustic parameters to understand voice issues complexity.

Objetivo: Este estudio examina los factores que predicen los síntomas de voz en los trabajadores de call centers. Métodos: Se utilizan análisis multivariados y modelos predictivos para evaluar factores personales, laborales, acústicos y de comportamiento. Se emplean Modelos Lineales Generalizados (GLM) y curvas ROC. Resultados: La edad y los patrones de sueño afectaron la calidad vocal y el esfuerzo, mientras que los factores laborales influyeron en la percepción de síntomas. Los comportamientos vocales no saludables se relacionaron con voz tensa y mayor esfuerzo, mientras que la hidratación fue protectora. Los parámetros acústicos de voz mostraron potencial diagnóstico respaldado por datos de ROC. Los hallazgos subrayan complejidad de síntomas vocales en profesionales de centros de llamadas, requiriendo una evaluación integral. Limitaciones: Este estudio reconoce sus limitaciones, que incluyen una muestra de conveniencia de tamaño moderado y la dependencia de medidas PROMs. Futuras investigaciones deberían incorporar medidas objetivas, además de los autorreportes y análisis acústico. Importancia: Esta investigación aporta nuevos conocimientos sobre factores personales, laborales y síntomas de voz en trabajadores de call centers. El modelado predictivo mejora la evaluación de riesgos y la comprensión de la susceptibilidad individual a trastornos de la voz. Conclusión: Los resultados muestran asociaciones entre diversos factores y los síntomas vocales reportados. Los factores de protección incluyen dormir más de seis horas y una hidratación constante; los factores de riesgo incluyen las condiciones de trabajo, como la ubicación y comportamientos como fumar. Los modelos de diagnóstico indican una buena precisión para algunas PROMs de síntomas de la voz, lo que subraya la necesidad de modelos integrales que tengan en cuenta los factores laborales, los comportamientos vocales y los parámetros acústicos para comprender la complejidad de los problemas de la voz.

Prevalência e fatores de riscos relacionados a comportamentos suicidas em profissionais do sexo / Prevalencia y factores de riesgo relacionados con la conducta suicidal en trabajadores sexuales / Prevalence and risk factors related to suicidal behavior in sex workers

Introdução: O trabalho sexual consentido é, historicamente, permeado por estigmas, proporcionando a marginalização social de profissionais do sexo e sua maior exposição a fatores de riscos que tendenciam a condutas suicidas. Objetivo: Identificar a prevalência e dos fatores de riscos relacionados a comportamentos suicidas em profissionais do sexo, tendo em vista a vulnerabilidade social desse grupo. Metodologia: Este estudo é uma revisão integrativa de literatura, determinada a partir da seguinte questão de pesquisa: "Qual a prevalência e os fatores de riscos relacionados a comportamentos suicidas entre profissionais do sexo?". Em seguida, aplicou os subsequentes Descritores em Ciências da Saúde: "Suicide" e "Sex workers", que foram combinados com o operador booleano "AND", nas plataformas National Library of Medicine, Science Direct, Portal de Periódicos da Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior, Literatura Latino-americana e do Caribe, Scientific Eletronic Library Online, BioMed Central, Business Source Completee WorldWideScience. Foram selecionados 19 artigos relacionados ao objeto de estudo. Resultados: A prevalência de suicídio em profissionais do sexo foi classificada em três subcategorias: tentativas de suicídio, com predominância de 31,57% (n=6), ideação suicida com 15,78% (n=3) e o risco de suicídio com 5,26% (n=1). Os riscos de comportamentos suicidas foram associados a diversos fatores, sobretudo a violência (47,36%; n=9), depressão (26,31%; n=5) e a pobreza (15,78%; n=3). Conclusões: Há uma alta prevalência de comportamentos suicidas em profissionais do sexo que está associada a diversos fatores de riscos, verificando a carência de abordagens comunitárias direcionadas à vulnerabilidade social desse grupo (AU).

Introduction: Consensual sex work has historically been permeated by stigma, leading to the social marginalization of sex workers and their increased exposure to risk factors that tend to correlate with suicidal behaviors. Objective:To explore the prevalence and risk factors related to suicidal behavior in sex workers, considering the social vulnerability of this group. Methodology: This study is an integrative literature review, guided by the research question: "What is the prevalence and risk factors related to suicidal behaviors among sex workers?" The following Health Science Descriptors were applied: "Suicide" and "Sex workers," combined with the boolean operator "AND," on platforms such as the National Library of Medicine, Science Direct, Portal de Periódicos da Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior, Literatura Latino-americana e do Caribe, Scientific Eletronic Library Online, BioMed Central, Business Source Complete, and WorldWideScience. Nineteen articles related to the study's objectivewere selected. Results:The prevalence of suicide among sex workers were classified into three subcategories: suicide attempts, with a predominance of 31.57% (n=6), suicidal ideation with 15.78% (n=3) and the risk of suicide with a prevalence of 5.26% (n=1). The risks of suicidal behavior were associated with several factors, especially violence (47,36%; n=9), depression (26.31%; n=5) and poverty (15.78% /n=3). Conclusions: There is a high prevalence of suicidal behaviors among sex workers, associated with various risk factors, highlighting the need for community-based approaches addressing the social vulnerability of this group (AU).

Introducción: El trabajo sexual consensuado ha estado históricamente impregnado de estigmas, llevando a la marginación social de los profesionales del sexo y a una mayor exposición a factores de riesgo que tienden a asociarse con conductas suicidas. Objetivo: Identificar la prevalencia y los factores de riesgo relacionados con comportamientos suicidas en profesionales del sexo, considerando la vulnerabilidad social de este grupo. Metodología: Este estudio es una revisión integradora de la literatura, derivada de la siguiente pregunta de investigación: "¿Cuál es laprevalencia y los factores de riesgo relacionados con comportamientos suicidas entre los profesionales del sexo?". Posteriormente, se aplicaron los siguientes Descriptores en Ciencias de la Salud: "Suicide" y "Sex workers", combinados con el operador booleano "AND", en plataformas como la Biblioteca Nacional de Medicina, Science Direct, Portal de Periódicos de la Coordinación de Perfeccionamiento de Personal de Nivel Superior, Literatura Latinoamericana y del Caribe, Scientific Electronic Library Online, BioMed Central, Business Source Complete y WorldWideScience. Se seleccionaron 19 artículos relacionados con el objeto de estudio. Resultados: La prevalencia de suicidio en profesionales del sexo se clasificó en tres subcategorías: intentos de suicidio, con una predominancia del 31,57% (n=6), ideación suicida con el 15,78% (n=3) y el riesgo de suicidio con el 5,26% (n=1). Los riesgos de comportamientos suicidas se asociaron con varios factores, especialmente la violencia (47,36%; n=9), la depresión (26,31%; n=5) y la pobreza (15,78%; n=3). Conclusiones: Existe una alta prevalencia de comportamientos suicidas en profesionales del sexo asociada con diversos factores de riesgo, destacando la necesidad de enfoques comunitarios dirigidos a la vulnerabilidad social de este grupo (AU).

Efecto de un programa de autocuidado en hábitos de vida saludable con relación a la obesidad en personal de salud de una institución de tercer nivel / Efeito de um programa de autocuidado nos hábitos de vida saudáveis em relação à obesidade em profissionais de saúde de uma instituição terciária / Effect of a self-care program on healthy lifestyle habits in relation to obesity in health personnel of a tertiary institution

Introducción. A nivel mundial, la obesidad es considerada como un problema de salud pública debido a que afecta a la población de todas las edades, incluso al mismo personal que trabaja en instituciones de salud, situación que repercute en su ámbito personal, familiar, pero sobre todo laboral, causando en el trabajador dificultad para realizar algunos procedimientos, ausentismo laboral, discapacidad parcial o total y/o necesidad de cuidado, entre otros.  Objetivo.  Evaluar el efecto de una intervención de autocuidado en hábitos de vida saludable con relación a la obesidad en personal de salud de una institución de tercer nivel.  Metodología. Estudio cuasi experimental, muestra 30 trabajadores con sobrepeso o algún grado de obesidad de una institución de salud de tercer nivel. Se impartieron 10 temas con relación a la obesidad, para cambiar hábitos deficientes por hábitos saludables, además de 10 sesiones de actividad física.    Resultados. Al final de la intervención, dos personas bajaron el nivel de su índice de masa corporal, una persona con obesidad grado III y una de grado II bajaron a peso normal. En cuanto a las medidas antropométricas posterior a la intervención, hubo reducción en cada uno de los parámetros, referente a la evaluación del cuestionario hábitos de vida saludable, relacionados con la obesidad posterior a la intervención, se encontraron cambios positivos en cada una de las dimensiones. Sin embargo, tanto en la reducción de IMC, así como en las dimensiones del cuestionario, la diferencia encontrada, no fue estadísticamente significativa.  Conclusiones. Los resultados sugieren que una intervención educativa en hábitos de vida saludable vinculados con la obesidad en personal de salud, son eficaces para contribuir al autocuidado de los trabajadores en el ámbito laboral

Introduction. Worldwide, obesity is considered a public health problem because it affects the population of all ages, including the same personnel who work in health institutions, a situation that has repercussions in their personal and family environment, but above all at work, causing the worker difficulty in performing some procedures, absenteeism, partial or total disability and/or need for care, among others. Objective. To evaluate the effect of a self-care intervention on healthy life habits in relation to obesity in health personnel of a third level institution. Methodology. Quasi-experimental study, sample of 30 workers with overweight or some degree of obesity in a tertiary health institution. Ten topics related to obesity were taught in order to change deficient habits for healthy habits, in addition to 10 sessions of physical activity. Results. At the end of the intervention, two people lowered their body mass index level, one person with grade III obesity and one with grade II obesity lowered to normal weight. Regarding the anthropometric measures after the intervention, there was a reduction in each one of the parameters, regarding the evaluation of the healthy life habits questionnaire, related to obesity after the intervention, positive changes were found in each one of the dimensions. However, both in the reduction of BMI and in the dimensions of the questionnaire, the difference found was not statistically significant. Conclusions. The results suggest that an educational intervention on healthy lifestyle habits related to obesity in health personnel is effective in contributing to the self-care of workers in the workplace

Introdução. A nível mundial, a obesidade é considerada um problema de saúde pública porque afecta a população de todas as idades, incluindo o próprio pessoal que trabalha nas instituições de saúde, situação que tem repercussões no seu ambiente pessoal e familiar, mas sobretudo no trabalho, causando ao trabalhador dificuldade na realização de alguns procedimentos, absentismo, incapacidade parcial ou total e/ou necessidade de cuidados, entre outros. Objectivos. Avaliar o efeito de uma intervenção de autocuidado sobre hábitos de vida saudáveis em relação à obesidade em profissionais de saúde de uma instituição de cuidados terciários. Metodologia. Estudo quase-experimental, amostra de 30 trabalhadores com excesso de peso ou algum grau de obesidade numa instituição de saúde terciária. Foram ensinados dez temas relacionados com a obesidade, com o objetivo de mudar hábitos deficientes por hábitos saudáveis, além de 10 sessões de atividade física. Resultados. No final da intervenção, duas pessoas baixaram o índice de massa corporal, uma pessoa com obesidade de grau III e uma com obesidade de grau II passaram para o peso normal. Relativamente às medidas antropométricas após a intervenção, verificou-se uma redução em cada um dos parâmetros, e relativamente à avaliação do questionário de hábitos de vida saudáveis relacionados com a obesidade após a intervenção, verificaram-se alterações positivas em cada uma das dimensões. No entanto, tanto na redução do IMC como nas dimensões do questionário, a diferença encontrada não foi estatisticamente significativa. Conclusões. Os resultados sugerem que uma intervenção educativa sobre hábitos de vida saudáveis ligados à obesidade no pessoal de saúde é eficaz para contribuir para o autocuidado dos trabalhadores no local de trabalho

Evaluation by community health agents of the attributes of Primary Health Care for fighting leprosy: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether the attributes of Primary Healthcare are present in leprosy control actions in Londrina from Community Health Workers' (CHW) perspectives. METHOD: Observational and evaluative study. Data collection occurred between January and March 2020 in Londrina, Paraná, using the questionnaire "Primary Care Assessment Tool (PCATool) - Hansen's disease - CHW version" and a population-based census of 246 CHWs from 52 Primary Healthcare Units. The analyses used a cutoff point (≥ 6.6), central tendency, and dispersion measures. One-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc tests were used to analyze differences. Results: The general performance towards the primary healthcare attributes were evaluated as strong (mean = 6.95 / SD = 1.08) and the essential score (mean = 7.39 / SD = 1.0). On the other hand, the derived score was evaluated as poor (mean = 6.07 / sd = 1.06). Concerning the Access attribute, the rural zone had a lower score than the urban (mean = 4.47 / SD = 1.63). Conclusion: The study highlights issues that can be improved, such as first contact access, catalog of services offered to leprosy patients, information provided to the community, professional training, and differences in PHC performance between urban and rural regions.

Willingness of WHO staff to work in health emergencies in the African Region: opportunity for phased deployment of staff and ensure continuity of health services

A human resource base that ensures appropriate deployment of staff to emergencies, addressing different shock events in emergencies, without disrupting continuity of service is germane to a successful response. Consequently, the WHO Health Emergencies programme in the African Region, in collaboration with Africa Centre for Disease Control (ACDC) launched the African Volunteer Health Corps (AVoHC) and Strengthening and Utilization of Response Group for Emergencies (SURGE), an initiative aimed at ensuring a pool of timely responders. We explored the willingness of WHO staff to work in emergencies. A call for expression of interest to be part of the Elite Emergency Experts (Triple E) was published on 5th July 2022 via email and was open for 5 weeks. The responses were analyzed using simple descriptive statistics and presented with graphic illustrations. A total of 1253 WHO staff, from all the six WHO regions, cutting across all cadre, applied to the call. The applicants had various trainings and experiences in emergency and have responded to mostly disease outbreaks. Two-third of the applicants were males. This paper did not explore reasons for the willingness to work in emergencies. However, contrary to fears expressed in literature that health workers would not want to work in emergencies with potential for infections, the applicants have worked mostly in infectious emergencies. Literature identified some themes on factors that could impact on willingness of health workers to work in emergencies. These include concerns for the safety of the responders and impact of partners, child and elderly care, as well as other family obligations, which emergency planners must consider in planning emergency response.

Psychological distress among South African healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has placed immense pressure on healthcare workers (HCWs). Objectives: This study sought to find the prevalence and factors associated with psychological distress among HCWs in South Africa during the beginning phases of COVID-19 and make relevant recommendations. Method: The survey was administered online through a data-free platform. Data were benchmarked to the national population of over 500 000 healthcare professionals in South Africa. Multiple logistic regressions were used to determine association between psychological distress and potential explanatory variables. Results: A total of 7607 healthcare professionals participated in the study (1760 nurses, 2843 medical practitioners and 3004 other healthcare professionals). Half of the nurses, 41% of medical practitioners and 47% of other healthcare professionals were classified as psychologically distressed. Those who were of older age, provided with well-being support services and having a positive outlook on the healthcare system were significantly less likely to be distressed. Being female medical practitioners and female other healthcare professions, requesting routine counselling, being concerned about not having enough leave and that their life insurance policy did not cover COVID-19 were more likely to be distressed. Conclusion: Psychological well-being of HCWs in South Africa is at risk. We recommend that psychological distress of HCWs be routinely assessed and that routine counselling, well-being support services, appropriate hazardous leave and insurance be provided to all HCWs. Contribution: This study adds to the literature on the psychological distress faced by HCWs in South Africa during COVID-19.

Fast-track interventions for HIV and AIDS epidemic control among key populations: A rapid review

Background: Despite measures put in place to combat teenage pregnancy, the rate remains high. Community health workers (CHWs) are a cadre of health workers that can help put measures in place to reduce teenage pregnancy in the communities in which they live and work. Aim: This article aims to gain a deeper understanding of CHWs' perceptions regarding teenage pregnancy in the rural districts of Limpopo province. Methods: An exploratory qualitative study approach was employed to collect data from CHWs in two rural districts of Limpopo. A non-probability purposive sampling approach was used to choose 81 CHWs. Eight focus group discussions (FGDs) were organised, and audio recorded to collect data from participants. The discussions were 2­3 h long and conducted in English, and data saturation was attained by the fifth FGDs. Results: An eight-step tech's content analysis approach was employed to deductively code, analyse and summarise data into themes. Three themes emerged: the prevalence of teenage pregnancy in rural villages, factors contributing to teenage pregnancy and challenges faced by CHWs when dealing with teenage pregnancy. Conclusion: The study's findings revealed that CHWs face challenges in their communities when offering appropriate teen pregnancy services and CHWs believe that teen pregnancy numbers remain high. There is a significant barrier in combating teenage pregnancy; if contraceptives are not acceptable to the community, the only solution and option for combating teenage pregnancy is abstinence. Contribution: The CHWs presented their insights of teenage pregnancy in rural communities. The outcomes of this study could help clinical practise, schools, communities, youth-friendly services, policymakers and other non-governmental organisations reduce teenage pregnancy.

Characterization of genital chlamydia amongst female sex workers in Nairobi, Kenya

Introduction: genital chlamydia, which is caused by diverse Chlamydia trachomatis genotypes, is largely asymptomatic. We aimed to identify C. trachomatis genotypes causing genital chlamydia among female sex workers attending a sex workers outreach program clinic in Nairobi, Kenya. Methods: this cross-sectional study was conducted between 18 April 2017 and 19 March 2021. Genitourinary complaints from eligible female sex workers were documented using a structured questionnaire. Endocervical swabs were collected for laboratory analysis. C. trachomatis plasmid DNA was extracted, PCR-amplified, and sequenced. Consensus sequences were generated and aligned with reference sequences to determine the C.trachomatis genotypes. Bivariate analysis was used to determine the association between genitourinary complaints and genital chlamydia. Results: endocervical swabs were collected from a total of 348 participants. Of these, 46 (13.2%) were positive for C. trachomatis. Most (297, 85.3%) of the participants presented with pelvic discharge with or without other symptoms. Fifteen (15, 4.3%) had abdominal pain and 3 (0.9%) had an itchy vulva. There was no statistically significant relationship between clinical presentation and genital chlamydia. Twenty-three samples were successfully sequenced. Each sequence was at least 90% identical to each of the 13 references C. trachomatis genotypes A, B, C, D, E, F, G, Ia, J, L1, L2, L2b and L3. Conclusion: we found no significant association between individual genitourinary complaints and genital chlamydia infection. The C. trachomatis genotypes circulating amongst female sex workers in Nairobi could be related to genotypes A, B, C, D, E, F, G, Ia, J, L1, L2, L2b, and L3.

Perceptions of community health workers on teenage pregnancy in rural Limpopo: A qualitative study

Background: Despite measures put in place to combat teenage pregnancy, the rate remains high. Community health workers (CHWs) are a cadre of health workers that can help put measures in place to reduce teenage pregnancy in the communities in which they live and work. Aim: This article aims to gain a deeper understanding of CHWs' perceptions regarding teenage pregnancy in the rural districts of Limpopo province. Methods: An exploratory qualitative study approach was employed to collect data from CHWs in two rural districts of Limpopo. A non-probability purposive sampling approach was used to choose 81 CHWs. Eight focus group discussions (FGDs) were organised, and audio recorded to collect data from participants. The discussions were 2­3 h long and conducted in English, and data saturation was attained by the fifth FGDs. Results: An eight-step tech's content analysis approach was employed to deductively code, analyse and summarise data into themes. Three themes emerged: the prevalence of teenage pregnancy in rural villages, factors contributing to teenage pregnancy and challenges faced by CHWs when dealing with teenage pregnancy. Conclusion: The study's findings revealed that CHWs face challenges in their communities when offering appropriate teen pregnancy services and CHWs believe that teen pregnancy numbers remain high. There is a significant barrier in combating teenage pregnancy; if contraceptives are not acceptable to the community, the only solution and option for combating teenage pregnancy is abstinence. Contribution: The CHWs presented their insights of teenage pregnancy in rural communities. The outcomes of this study could help clinical practise, schools, communities, youth-friendly services, policymakers and other non-governmental organisations reduce teenage pregnancy

Attitudes of health workers towards management of hepatitis B Infection in general hospitals in Kwara State, Nigeria

Hepatitis B is one of the most dangerous diseases in the world and it has become a serious threat to public health. Health workers are mostly at risk of contracting the disease as they remain the first point of call to the victims. This study examined the attitudes of health workers towards management of HBV infection and the difference in attitudes of health workers based on area of specialization. An ex-post facto research design sampling 412 health workers across different areas of specialization which include doctors, nurses, laboratory scientists and laboratory technicians. Majority of the health workers had negative attitudes towards HBV patients. However, doctors (mean score=3.72) and nurses (mean score=3.54) had mild negative attitudes towards HBV patients, while laboratory scientists (mean score=3.02) and laboratory technicians (mean score=3.04) had the poorest attitudes towards HBV patients. There is need to improve the attitudes of the different cadres of health workers in the state, in order to improve the quality of life of HBV patients and reduce stigma which may impact negatively on patients' mental health.

Prevalence, pattern and factors associated with workplace violence against healthcare workers in Nigeria: A systematic review

Objective:This study aimed to describe the prevalence, pattern, and predictors of WPVagainst HCWs in Nigeria. Methods:Asystematic review was conducted using pre-defined keywords. The review was performed in line with the PRISMAguidelines on PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science. The population, intervention, comparator, and outcome (PICO) elements for this study were as follows: Population:Nigerian Healthcare workers; Intervention: Exposure to WPV; Comparator: Non-exposure to WPV; Outcome: Mental and Physical health outcomes of exposure to WPV. Of the 18,140 articles retrieved, 15 cross-sectional studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. In all, 3,245 HCWs were included, and consisted majorly of nurses and doctors. Results:The overall prevalence of WPV(Physical > Verbal/Psychological > Sexual) against HCWs ranged between 39.1%-100%. The predictors of WPVare younger ages (AOR = 2.513, p = 0.012), working in psychiatric unit (AOR = 11.182, p = 0.006), and increased frequency of interaction with patients, and mostly perpetrated by patients and their relatives. Many health facilities lacked a formal reporting system and policies to protect HCWs from WPV. Conclusion:WPVagainst HCWs is a public health problem in Nigeria with dire implications on HCWs; the victims, and the aggressor. Administrators of health facilities should design protocols for WPVreporting, recognition, and management. Patient and 'relatives' education on the 'facilities' policy against WPVshould be undertaken, while orientation sessions on the risk factors for HCWs are scheduled.

Occupational health management of radiation workers in non-medical institutions in Shanxi Province, China / 中国辐射卫生

Objective To understand the basic information of the number, classification, and distribution of radiation work units in non-medical institutions in Shanxi Province, China, and to analyze the status quo of health management and radiation protection measures for radiation workers, so as to provide a scientific basis for occupational exposure protection in non-medical radiation work units and better protect the occupational health rights and interests of radiation workers. Methods A questionnaire survey was conducted to investigate some non-medical institutions in Shanxi Province. On-site testing was carried out to determine the risk factors for radioactive occupational diseases in the selected non-medical institutions. Results In 220 non-medical institutions, there were 340 radiation devices and 2284 radioactive sources. The rate of individual dose monitoring was 92.7% and the rate of occupational health examination was 87.2%. These devices were equipped with 325 detection instruments for radiation protection, 1316 personal protective equipment, and 730 personal dose alarms. Radiation occupational disease risk factors were investigated in 101 institutions. Conclusion The occupational health management of radiation workers in non-medical institutions in Shanxi Province is generally in line with the national standards. However, there is still a big gap with the level of occupational health management in medical institutions. The health administration departments should clarify the management measures for non-medical institutions and strengthen their supervision and management functions.

Factors associated with Community Health Agents' knowledge about tuberculosis / Factores asociados al conocimiento sobre tuberculosis de los Agentes Comunitarios de Salud / Fatores associados ao conhecimento sobre tuberculose de Agentes Comunitários de Saúde

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the factors associated with the knowledge of Community Health Agents (ACS) about tuberculosis. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 110 ACS. A questionnaire was used to assess knowledge about pulmonary tuberculosis (component 1) and the work functions of ACS in the National Tuberculosis Control Program (component 2). The level of knowledge, according to the scores converted into a scale of 0 to 100, was classified as: 0-50% (low), 51-75% (medium), and over 75% (high). Multiple regression was used in the analysis of associated factors. Results: The global score (average of the scores of components 1 and 2) median knowledge was 68.6%. Overall knowledge about tuberculosis was positively associated with the length of professional experience, having received training on tuberculosis, and access to the tuberculosis guide/handbook. Conclusions: Investments in training and capacity-building strategies for ACS will contribute to increasing these professionals' knowledge, resulting in greater success in tuberculosis control.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Analizar los factores asociados al conocimiento de los Agentes Comunitarios de Salud (ACS) sobre la tuberculosis. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal con 110 ACS. Se utilizó un cuestionario para evaluar el conocimiento sobre la tuberculosis pulmonar (componente 1) y las funciones laborales de los ACS en el Programa Nacional de Control de la Tuberculosis (componente 2). El nivel de conocimiento, según las puntuaciones convertidas en una escala de 0 a 100, se clasificó como: 0-50% (bajo), 51-75% (medio) y más del 75% (alto). La regresión múltiple se utilizó en el análisis de factores asociados. Resultados: La puntuación global (media de las puntuaciones de los componentes 1 y 2) del conocimiento mediano fue del 68,6%. El conocimiento general sobre la tuberculosis estuvo positivamente asociado con la duración de la experiencia profesional, haber recibido capacitación sobre tuberculosis y el acceso a la guía/manual de tuberculosis. Conclusiones: Las inversiones en formación y estrategias de capacitación para los ACS contribuirán a aumentar el conocimiento de estos profesionales, lo que resultará en un mayor éxito en el control de la tuberculosis.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar os fatores associados ao conhecimento dos Agentes Comunitários de Saúde (ACS) sobre tuberculose. Métodos: Estudo transversal realizado com 110 ACS. Utilizou-se um questionário para avaliar o conhecimento sobre tuberculose pulmonar (componente 1) e as funções laborais dos ACS no Programa Nacional de Controle de Tuberculose (componente 2). O nível de conhecimento, de acordo com os escores transformados em uma escala de 0 a 100, foi classificado como: 0-50% (baixo), 51-75% (mediano) e mais de 75% (alto). A regressão múltipla foi empregada na análise dos fatores associados. Resultados: A pontuação global (média dos escores dos componentes 1 e 2) mediana do conhecimento foi de 68,6%. O conhecimento global sobre tuberculose mostrou-se positivamente associado ao tempo de atuação profissional, à recepção de capacitação sobre tuberculose e ao acesso ao guia/cartilha de tuberculose. Conclusões: Investimentos na formação e nas estratégias de capacitação dos ACS contribuirão para o aumento do conhecimento desses profissionais, resultando em maior sucesso no controle da tuberculose.

Fatores associados à insegurança laboral em profissionais de saúde bucal do Sistema Único de Saúde durante a pandemia de COVID-19 / Factors associated with workplace insecurity in brazilian Unified Health System's oral health professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic

Resumo Objetivos: analisar os fatores associados à insegurança na realização das atividades laborais durante a pandemia de COVID-19 entre profissionais de saúde bucal do Sistema Único de Saúde do Ceará. Métodos: estudo transversal com dados secundários disponibilizados pela Coordenadoria de Atenção à Saúde do Ceará, coletados em maio de 2020. Foram construídos modelos de regressão logística. Resultados: participaram 801 profissionais, dos quais 72,8% eram cirurgiões-dentistas, 73,9% relataram não ter recebido todos os equipamentos de proteção individual (EPI) recomendados e 58,2% relataram não se sentirem seguros para realizar atividades laborais. Na análise ajustada, foram associados à insegurança laboral: maior tempo de formação (RC=1,90; IC95%: 1,12; 3,20), vínculo empregatício efetivo (RC=1,85; IC95%: 1,15; 2,99) e não recebimento de todos os EPI recomendados (RC=1,84; IC95%: 1,16; 2,91); enquanto a chance de insegurança foi menor entre os profissionais que atuavam no nível secundário de atenção à saúde (RC=0,52; IC95%: 0,28; 0,96). Conclusão: os profissionais relataram situação de insegurança laboral durante a primeira onda da pandemia. O estudo revelou a necessidade de melhorias nas condições de trabalho com distribuição de EPI de forma equitativa em todo o estado, garantindo um exercício laboral mais seguro.

Abstract Objectives: to analyze the factors associated with workplace insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic among oral healthcare providers of the Unified Health System of the state of Ceará. Methods: cross-sectional study with secondary data made available by the Health Care Coordination, which were collected in May 2020. Logistic regression models were constructed. Results: in total, 801 professionals participated in this research, of whom 72.8% were dentists, 73.9% reported receiving only some of the recommended Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and 58.2% reported feeling unsafe to carry out work activities. In the adjusted analysis, the following factors were associated with workplace insecurity: permanent employment (OR=1.85; 95%CI: 1.15; 2.99) and not receiving all the recommended PPE (OR=1.84; 95%CI: 1.16; 2.91); whereas the chance of feeling insecure was higher among dental assistants and technicians (OR=2.13; 95%CI 1.34; 3.40) than among dental surgeons. Conclusion: professionals reported workplace insecurity during the first wave of the pandemic. This study shows the need for improving working conditions with equal distribution of PPE throughout the state, ensuring safer working conditions.

Avaliação dos aspectos psicossociais do trabalho no Brasil no contexto da saúde do trabalhador: uma revisão de escopo / Assessment of psychosocial aspects of work in Brazil in the context of worker health: a scoping review

Resumo Objetivo: descrever dimensões da avaliação dos aspectos psicossociais do trabalho (APST) encontradas na literatura e em documentos normativos no Brasil. Métodos: revisão de escopo com busca de artigos nas bases Portal da Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde do Brasil, Web of Science e Medline, publicados de 2017 a 2021. Também incluíram-se documentos governamentais brasileiros com orientação ou indicação para avaliação dos APST. Resultados: foram selecionados 58 artigos e 22 documentos governamentais. Destes, 75,9% são estudos de delineamento quantitativo transversal. A área da saúde foi o principal campo de estudo, assim como a categoria dos profissionais de enfermagem. Dos documentos governamentais, 63,6% classificam-se como materiais de suporte técnico, a maioria voltada para saúde do trabalhador e vigilância. Discussão: a maior parte dos estudos compreende APST como aspectos relacionados ao estresse ocupacional, referenciando-se, sobretudo, no modelo demanda-controle. A associação com desfechos de saúde, principalmente burnout, se destacou entre os artigos. Mesmo apresentando fragilidade de delimitação conceitual e metodológica, os documentos governamentais têm na Ergonomia da Atividade e Psicodinâmica do Trabalho as principais referências teóricas. Conclusão: é preciso maior aproximação entre conhecimento acadêmico, normatização e suporte técnico sobre avaliação dos APST para fortalecimento da Vigilância em Saúde do Trabalhador e da Trabalhadora (Visatt).

Abstract Objective: to describe the dimensions of the assessment of psychosocial aspects of work (APST) in Brazil found in the literature and normative documents. Methods: this is a scoping review that included the of scientific papers in the Virtual Health Library of Brazil, Web of Science and Medline databases, published from 2017 to 2021. Gray literature was also included, being characterized by documents from the Brazilian government with guidance or indications to evaluate APST. Results: 58 articles and 22 government documents were included. Of these, 75.9% are cross-sectional quantitative studies. The health area stood out as the main field of study, as well as the category of nursing professionals. Regarding government documents, 63.6% were classified as technical support materials, most of which focused on worker's health and surveillance. Discussion: most of scientific studies understand APST as aspects related to occupational stress, mainly referring to the demand-control model. The association with health outcomes, especially burnout, stood out among the scientific papers. Despite presenting conceptual and methodological frailty regarding APST, government documents presented the Ergonomic Activity and Psychodynamics of Work as the main theoretical references. Conclusions: academic knowledge, legal standardization and technical support should be made closer on the evaluation of APST to strengthen VISATT.

Aprendizados e estratégias inventivas no cotidiano de catadoras(es) de material reciclável / Learnings and inventive strategies in the daily life of waste pickers

Resumo Introdução: o mundo do trabalho apresenta profundas transformações que impactam no cotidiano e nos processos de subjetivação de trabalhadores, inclusive os informais, como os catadores de material reciclável. Seu trabalho tem uma constante importância socioambiental, produz múltiplos sentidos e, ao mesmo tempo, é atrelado a interdições e riscos. Objetivo: compreender os processos de aprendizado e inventividade no trabalho de catadores de material reciclável da região da Grande Florianópolis. Métodos: trata-se de uma pesquisa exploratória-descritiva, com abordagem qualitativa, com entrevistas semiestruturadas e observações do ambiente de trabalho. Foram utilizados mapas de associação de ideias como estratégia de análise das práticas discursivas, com a análise conjunta dos discursos, extraindo as similaridades entre as narrativas dos catadores. Resultados: foram entrevistados 14 catadores. Identificou-se que o processo de aprendizado das atividades laborais ocorreu no próprio cotidiano, principalmente com pessoas mais experientes, além do desenvolvimento de conhecimentos e habilidades com base na experiência. Quanto ao caráter inventivo dos trabalhadores, observou-se a utilização de regras, normas e princípios para os seus fazeres, que são compartilhados e renovados cotidianamente. Conclusão: evidenciou-se a relevância dos vínculos estabelecidos nas relações cotidianas, tanto para o aprendizado como para o compartilhamento de estratégias inventivas.

Abstract Introduction: the labor market brings profound transformations that impact workers' daily lives and subjectivation processes, including informal ones such as waste pickers. Waste picking has a reiterated socio-environmental importance, producing multiple meanings while being linked to interdictions and risks. Objective: understand the work learning processes and inventiveness of waste pickers in the metropolitan region of Florianópolis. Methods: this qualitative, descriptive and exploratory study used semi-structured interviews and fieldwork observations to collect the information necessary to answer the defined objective. Discursive practices were analyzed via maps of association of ideas and joint discourse analysis by extracting the similarities between the pickers' narratives. Results: a total of 14 waste pickers were interviewed. Learning took place in everyday relations, especially with more experienced pickers, with knowledge and skills being developed based on experience. As for the inventive axis, workers use rules, norms, and principles for their activities, which are shared and reiterated daily. Conclusion: results highlight the bonds established by waste pickers in everyday relations, both for learning and sharing inventive strategies.

Common mental disorders and risk perception in nursing work at covid-19 hospital units / Trastornos mentales comunes y percepción del riesgo en el trabajo de enfermería en unidades hospitalarias exclusivas para covid-19 / Transtornos mentais comuns e percepção de risco no trabalho de enfermagem em unidades hospitalares covid-19

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze the associations between suspected Common Mental Disorders and risk perception in Nursing work at Covid-19 hospital units and to understand the elements intertwined in these relationships, from the workers' perspective. Method: a parallel-convergent mixed-methods study, carried out with 327 Nursing workers from Covid-19 units in seven hospitals from the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The quantitative data were collected through a sociodemographic, work-related and risk perception questionnaire, added to the Self-Reporting Questionnaire and subjected to inferential statistical analysis. The qualitative data were produced through semi-structured interviews and treated in the light of thematic content analysis. Results: in all, 76.4% of the participants reported that their performance during the Covid-19 pandemic considerably or greatly increased the risks in their job. Regarding the risk exposure intensity, the workers consider themselves very exposed to the following risks: Covid-19 infection (51.4%); contaminating their family (45.9%); a family member developing a severe form of Covid-19 (46.5%); suffering psychological harms (47.7%); experiencing sleep (45.9%) or dietary pattern (40.7%) disorders; and isolating themselves from friends and family (48%). All of these variables were associated with suspected Common Mental Disorders. Qualitatively, it was evident that fear was the feeling signaling the intersection between risk perception and mental illness. Conclusion: suspected Common Mental Disorders were associated with the perception of multiple risks, with fear as the main element intertwined in this relationship.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar las asociaciones entre sospecha de Trastornos Mentales Comunes y percepción del riesgo en el trabajo de Enfermería en unidades hospitalarias exclusivas para COVID-19 y conocer los elementos entrelazados en estas relaciones, desde la perspectiva de los trabajadores. Método: estudio de métodos mixtos paralelo-convergente, realizado con 327 trabajadores da Enfermería de unidades exclusivas para COVID-19 de siete hospitales del estado de Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Los datos cuantitativos se recolectaron por medio de un cuestionario sociodemográfico, laboral y de percepción de riesgos, además de utilizarse el Self-Reporting Questionnaire, y se los sometió a análisis estadístico inferencial. Los datos cualitativos se produjeron por medio de entrevistas semiestructuradas y se los procesó sobre la base de análisis temático de contenido. Resultados: el 76,4% indicó que desempeñarse en la atención a pacientes con Covid-19 aumentó considerablemente o en demasía los riesgos en el trabajo. Con respecto a la intensidad de exposición a los riesgos, los trabajadores consideran estar muy expuestos a los siguientes riesgos: infección por Covid-19 (51,4%); contaminar a su familia (45,9%); que algún familiar desarrolle la forma grave da Covid-19 (46,5%); padecer perjuicios psicológicos (47,7%); sufrir alteraciones en el sueño (45,9) o en los hábitos alimenticios (40,7); u aislarse de familiares y amigos (48%). Todas estas variables demostraron estar asociadas a la sospecha de Trastornos Mentales Comunes. Cualitativamente, se evidenció que el sentimiento que señalizó la intersección entre percepción de riesgo y padecimiento mental fue el miedo. Conclusión: la sospecha de Trastornos Mentales Comunes se asoció a la percepción de múltiples riesgos, donde el miedo fue el principal elemento entrelazado en esa relación.

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar as associações entre a suspeita de Transtornos Mentais Comuns e a percepção de risco no trabalho da enfermagem em unidades hospitalares Covid-19 e conhecer os elementos imbricados nestas relações, na perspectiva dos trabalhadores. Método: estudo de métodos mistos paralelo-convergente, realizado com 327 trabalhadores da enfermagem de unidades Covid-19 de sete hospitais do estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Os dados quantitativos foram coletados por meio de um questionário sociodemográfico, laboral e de percepção de riscos, somado ao Self-Reporting Questionnaire e submetidos a analise estatística inferencial. Os dados qualitativos foram produzidos por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas e tratados à luz da análise temática de conteúdo. Resultados: 76,4% referiram que a atuação na Covid-19 aumentou consideravelmente ou muito os riscos no seu trabalho. No que tange à intensidade de exposição dos riscos, trabalhadores se consideram muito expostos ao risco de infecção por Covid-19 (51,4%); risco de levar a contaminação para sua família (45,9%); risco de que alguém da família desenvolva a forma grave da Covid-19 (46,5%); risco de sofrer danos psicológicos (47,7%); risco de sofrer alterações do sono (45,9); do padrão alimentar (40,7); e de se isolar de amigos e familiares (48%). Todas estas variáveis se mostraram associadas a suspeita de Transtornos Mentais Comuns. Qualitativamente, evidenciou-se que o medo era o sentimento balizador da intersecção entre a percepção de risco e o adoecimento mental. Conclusão: a suspeita de Transtornos Mentais Comuns associou-se à percepção de múltiplos riscos, sendo que o medo foi o principal elemento imbricado nessa relação.

Software development for the assistance to be provided to workers after accidents involving biological material / Desarrollo de un programa de software para la asistencia provista a los trabajadores después de un accidente con material biológico / Desenvolvimento de software para a assistência ao trabalhador após-acidente com material biológico

ABSTRACT Objective: to develop a prototype web-based software program for managing the assistance to be provided to workers after accidents involving exposure to biological material. Method: a research study on technological production involving the development of web-based software using the Agile Scrum method. It was conceived based on data produced in convergent care research with professionals involved in welcoming and decision-making regarding injured workers. The web-based software prototype underwent evaluation by participant that use the tool and was documented. Results: the web-based software assists in recording diverse information about accidents involving biological material and provides access to information, easing prompt actions and ensuring safety in procedures, which favors decision-making and the assistance provided to the workers. Conclusion: workers' health requires technological and managerial investments, with a focus on qualified welcoming and educational management to prevent accidents.

RESUMEN Objetivo: desarrollar un prototipo de software web para gestionar la asistencia provista a los trabajadores después de un accidente con exposición a material biológico. Método: investigación de producción tecnológica con desarrollo de un programa de software web empleando el método Ágil Scrum. El trabajo fue concebido a partir de datos producidos en una investigación convergente asistencial con profesionales que participan en la recepción y el proceso de toma de decisiones con respecto a los trabajadores accidentados. Además de ser registrado, el prototipo de programa de software web fue sometido a la evaluación de los participantes, que utilizan la herramienta. Resultados: el programa de software web contribuye a registrar diversa información sobre cada accidente con material biológico y proporciona acceso a los datos, aportando agilidad en las derivaciones y seguridad en las acciones, lo que favorece el proceso de toma de decisiones y la asistencia provista a los trabajadores. Conclusión: la salud de los trabajadores requiere inversiones tecnológicas y gerenciales, enfocadas en una recepción de calidad y en una buena gestión educativa para prevenir accidentes.

RESUMO Objetivo: desenvolver um protótipo de web software para o gerenciamento da assistência ao trabalhador após acidente com exposição a material biológico. Método: pesquisa de produção tecnológica com o desenvolvimento de um web software com utilização do método Ágil Scrum. Idealizado a partir de dados produzidos na pesquisa convergente assistencial com profissionais envolvidos no acolhimento e na tomada de decisões frente ao trabalhador acidentado. O protótipo de web software passou pela avaliação dos participantes usuários da ferramenta e foi registrado. Resultados: o web software auxilia no registro de informações sobre o acidente com material biológico e proporciona acesso à informação, trazendo agilidade nos encaminhamentos e segurança nas condutas, o que favorece a tomada de decisão e a assistência ao trabalhador. Conclusão: a saúde do trabalhador requer investimentos tecnológicos e gerenciais, com foco no qualificado acolhimento e gestão educativa para a prevenção dos acidentes.

Effects of training Community Health Agents on dementia: a quasi-experimental study / Efectos de la capacitación de Agentes Comunitarios de Salud en la demencia: un estudio cuasi experimental / Efeitos da capacitação de Agentes Comunitários de Saúde na demência: um estudo quase experimental

ABSTRACT Objectives: to evaluate the knowledge of Community Health Agents about dementia before and after the training workshop for detecting signs of the disease. Methods: a quasi-experimental study with 33 community agents, in which sociodemographic information and knowledge about dementia were collected and assessed using the Alzheimer's Disease Knowledge Scale before and after the workshop. There were 10 weekly, online, synchronous meetings. The Student's t-test for related samples was used, and the effect size was calculated. Results: while the average score on the initial assessment, using the measurement instrument, was 16.3, it was 21.24 in the final assessment. An increase in the scale score was observed after participating in the workshop, with a value of 4.94. Conclusions: it is urgent to invest in the ongoing education of these professionals for greater awareness in the timely detection of dementia cases in primary care and awareness of potentially modifiable factors.

RESUMEN Objetivos: evaluar el conocimiento de los Agentes Comunitarios de Salud sobre la demencia antes y después de un taller de capacitación para la detección de signos de la enfermedad. Métodos: estudio cuasi experimental con 33 agentes comunitarios, en el que se recopilaron datos sociodemográficos y conocimiento sobre la demencia, evaluados mediante la Escala de Conocimiento de la Enfermedad de Alzheimer, antes y después del taller. Hubo 10 sesiones semanales en línea y sincrónicas. Se utilizó la prueba t de Student para muestras relacionadas y se calculó el tamaño del efecto. Resultados: mientras que la puntuación promedio en la evaluación inicial a través del instrumento de medición fue de 16,3, en la evaluación final fue de 21,24. Se observó un aumento en la puntuación de instrumento después de participar en el taller, con un valor de 4,94. Conclusiones: es urgente invertir en la educación continua de estos profesionales para aumentar la conciencia en la detección oportuna de casos de demencia en atención primaria y la concienciación sobre factores potencialmente modificables.

RESUMO Objetivos: avaliar o conhecimento dos Agentes Comunitários de Saúde sobre demência antes e após a oficina de capacitação para detecção de sinais da doença. Métodos: estudo quase-experimental com 33 agentes comunitários, no qual foram coletadas informações sociodemográficas e de conhecimento sobre demência, avaliadas pela Alzheimer's Disease Knowledge Scale, no pré e pós-oficina. Houve 10 encontros semanais, online e síncronos. Utilizou-se o teste t de Student para amostras relacionadas e calculou-se o tamanho do efeito. Resultados: enquanto a média de pontos na avaliação inicial, por meio do instrumento de medida, foi de 16,3, na avaliação final foi de 21,24. Observou-se aumento na pontuação na escala após a participação na oficina, com um valor de 4,94. Conclusões: é urgente investir na educação permanente desses profissionais para maior conscientização na detecção oportuna de casos de demência ainda na atenção básica e conscientização de fatores potencialmente modificáveis.

The impact of Covid-19 on community and hospital pharmacists: a thematic analysis study

Abstract There are a limited number of studies examining the effects of the pandemic on the daily lives of Turkish community pharmacists, and no research investigating the impact on the lives of Turkish hospital pharmacists has been found. This study aimed to examine the effects of the pandemic on the personal and professional lives of Turkish community pharmacists and hospital pharmacists. In this qualitative study design, a comprehensive set of interviews was conducted with a total of 13 community pharmacists and 7 hospital pharmacists, employing a semi-structured interview guide. Through thematic content analysis of the interviews, four main themes, 1) long-term impacts, 2) dealing strategies, 3) professional life impacts, 4) personal life impacts, have emerged for both community pharmacists and hospital pharmacists. In addition to the psychological impacts and supply chain issues commonly mentioned in the literature, the study revealed ongoing effects such as the inability to sell available products and economic difficulties. Also, the increased demand for over-the-counter products during the pandemic highlights the need for the government to develop policies to address this issue.